Some 250 wee ones are sure to be filling Fremont's Teen Center the Friday before St. Patrick's Day. Who can say if they be leprechauns or children sporting beards and green hats? Either way, ye can spot them strolling through a magical woodland forest seeking four-leaf clovers and a pot o' gold while glimpsing gnomes, fairies and other mystical creatures.

Creative imaginations and at least a drop of Irish blood were involved in crafting the first "Leprechaun Land for Wee Folk," hosted by the City of Fremont Parks and Recreation Department. "It was kind of fun once we got the ideas rolling," says Recreation Supervisor Katie Fox. "We're looking forward to it and think it's going to be a special event."

For just a few bob, lads and lassies aged 3 to 6 can participate in a life-sized board game, progressing through the Magical Wood of Leprechaun Land by rolling dice and advancing the appropriate number of spaces.

Along the footpath they will encounter seven enchanted properties, each with a dwelling and playful activity. At Leprechaun Village, sponsored by the Fremont Exchange Club, travelers will get their passports stamped while learning to be a good citizen at the police department, post office and other city buildings.

Participants win a prize for each activity, which includes a Faerie Ring Toss, Mini Green Golf, Potato Walk, Fishing Pond and more. There's even a ShamRock Cafˇ (sorry, no T-shirts for sale).

Upon completion of the game, children will come upon Rainbow's End and Leprechaun Treasure, where they will discover goody bags and Shamrock Snacks.

Mind you, the evening also includes:* Making a leprechaun trap and other projects in the Crafty Crafts Room,* Catching a show in the Blarney Stone Movie Lounge, and * Hearing an Irish tall tale in the Storyteller Cellar (sponsored by Tri-City Voice).

"It's a family night for people to spend time with their kids and have fun together," Fox says.

Sure, there'll be many photo opportunities it's like to fill a digital camera. But ye must be quick and have the luck o' the Irish!